Issuu

BLOOMING

Beauty in Bloom

EDITOR IN CHIEF/PUBLISHER

Joanne Lifavi

ART DIRECTOR

Jennie Alberto

CO-EDITOR

Laurie Manfra

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Ken Brown

CEO of Incentives Organic Spa & Salon

Estheticians at Drew Patrick Spa

Eileen Jacinth, Owner of Equity Reformer Studio

Steve Marchese CEO of LightStim

Nicole Monteserrato

Board-Certified Holistic Nurse Coach

Q&A with Pastor Lou Pizzichillo Community Church of Babylon

PHOTO CREDITS

Ric Marder Imagery, Twice as Nice Interiors

Advertising Inquiries

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joanne@thelistmagazine.com

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Published four times a year, The LIST Magazine is a lifestyle magazine for the Great South Bay coastal communities. Most of our distribution is mailed from Babylon to Great River, south of Montauk Highway, and to all of Brightwaters. In addition, our magazines are available for pick- up in shops throughout our local villages and, in the summer months, on Fire Island at select markets and restaurants.

18 Bee the Change!

Dear Readers,

MUST KNOW

10 Beauty in Bloom

11 Buzz-Worthy Finds

12 Healthful Blooming Lists

The Dirty Dozen

14 Faith in Bloom

The Netter Family's 75-Year Legacy

Three Generations of Excellence

18 Bee the Change!

29 The Home Front

MUST GO

19 Events & Local Happenings

24 Dining Guide

RECIPES

28 Soul Food Brunch

REAL ESTATE 4–5, 16–17, 26–31 28 Soul

Spring has arrived! And with it is our April/May issue devoted to the theme of “Blooming.” Continuing with our yearly tradition, we’ve dedicated our premier issue of 2024 (the first of four seasonal editions) to local love, reflecting on the commitment shared by the many businesses featured in our pages. Deeply rooted in our community, these advertisers contribute their expertise and services to help our local towns flourish.

In honor of this season of renewal, we share stories that capture the essence of blooming. That journey, from the initial spark of the imagination to the emergence of a vibrant bloom, is filled with much anticipation and effort. Whether planning a celebration, embarking on a project, or fostering personal growth, it all starts with inspiration, followed by a decision, research, and a detailed plan. Soon, the first bud appears, leading to the bloom.

As you turn the pages of our magazine, you’ll meet many of our outstanding local businesses. Though each is unique, they all share one thing—a love for our community and a hope to connect with you.

As your community magazine, we extend an open invitation for you to share your thoughts and suggestions with us. We’re eager to hear from you. Recognizing that each of us may be experiencing our own unique season of life, our wish is for you to take a moment to flourish. Embrace the journey, nurture your growth, and keep blooming.

See you around town,

Celebrating my mother & the nurturing spirit of all women this Mother's Day.

Food Brunch

TOP REAL ESTATE TEAM ON LONG ISLAND

WEST ISLIP EXPERTS

Beauty in Bloom

Local Professionals Share Wellness & Skin Treatments

In our quest to discover the wellness and skincare treatments with the most impact that require no downtime, we engaged with the expert locals we admire. These standout treatments promise remarkable outcomes with minimal interruption to daily life.

Vitality Institute Peel

The VI Peel, now offered by the Drew Patrick Spa in Bay Shore, is the latest and most widely used medical-grade peel available. The painless procedure is ideal for treating skin conditions like hyperpigmentation, acne, uneven skin tone, and scars, but it can also be used routinely for improved skin texture and to gradually eliminate fine lines and wrinkles. The mediumdepth peel is made of a formulation of trichloroacetic acid, retinoic acid, salicylic acid, phenol, and vitamin C.

For your appointment, Drew Patrick’s licensed esthetician, who has been trained by the Vitality Institute to administer the peel, will evaluate your skin during an initial consultation and customize the formulation and intensity to meet your individual needs and goals. The peel is applied to your skin through gauze, with pauses between each layer, allowing the formula that has been selected for your skin (depending on your desired result) to be absorbed by the epidermis, or outer layer of skin. As layers of the peel are added, the formula penetrates below to the dermis layer, stimulating collagen and rejuvenating the skin.

The VI Peel is noninvasive, safe, and requires minimal downtime. After the procedure, you will be given products to be used at home, as well as a QR code to download an app for navigating the post-treatment instructions. You will experience some flaking after three days, and peeling during days three through five, but by day seven, your fresh new face will be revealed, along with a renewed sense of confidence, Drew Patrick's Spa Director Dana Tarasevicius says their clients are really loving it.

Drew Patrick Spa, Bay Shore, (631) 206-3739, drewpatrickspa.com

Red Light Therapy

Though it has recently grown in popularity, red light therapy is not new. The healing benefits of high-intensity red and near-infrared light were accidentally discovered in the 1960s, and further developed by NASA for use in space.

According to the manufacturer of LightStim, the first bed to receive FDA clearance, light therapy has been shown to alleviate many skin issues, such as dark spots, fine lines and wrinkles, lack of elasticity, acne, inflammation, and redness. The way it works is, when you shine light on the skin it gets absorbed by the body’s cells. Light is energy. The light gets converted by the body into biological energy, which is required for all cellular and biological functions.

After extensive research, Eileen Jacinth, owner of Equity Reformer Studio in Babylon Village, invested in a LightStim bed, offering the therapy—and extending its many benefits, such as lowering blood pressure and promoting healing—to her clients. She learned that athletes use it to increase blood flow for faster recovery, and surgeons recommend it to patients for postoperative care.

The most noticeable immediate benefits after one treatment include a radiant glow of the skin, calming of redness, and reduced edema. With ongoing treatments, you see reduction of fine lines and wrinkles and an overall improvement in skin tone and texture. Many people feel and see results after one session, but long-term results require regular use.

As with almost every therapy, it’s not recommended for certain people, such as those with a sensitivity to light, anyone taking drugs that create photosensitivity, and people who tend to become hyperpigmented when exposed to warmth. If you are pregnant or being treated for a serious medical condition, you should get approval from your physician beforehand.

Red light therapy is gentle and suitable for all skin types. It feels soothing, like laying in the sun, but without the harmful effects of UV radiation. Some people really enjoy the warmth and say they feel more relaxed after using it. Some even fall asleep!

Equity Reformer Studio, Babylon Village, (516) 909-9938, equityreformerstudio.com

Lymphatic Drainage Massage

Incentives Organic Spa & Salon in Babylon Village is now offering lymphatic drainage massage, a gentle and relaxing form of bodywork that helps flush the lymphatic system to promote the release of cell waste and excess fluid. Lymph is the actual fluid, containing nutrients and oxygen (like blood) that is circulated by the body to nourish cells, which then discard their toxins and waste into it, transporting it via the lymph nodes back into general circulation toward the heart.

While this type of massage can benefit anyone feeling rundown or experiencing stress, it is medically recommended to reduce swelling after injury or as part of postoperative care, such as breast cancer surgery. It can also help treat the pain associated with arthritis, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, sinus problems, and even migraines. Other circumstances where it can be beneficial are post-pregnancy, to reduce fluid retention after childbirth and increase the production of breastmilk, or to recover from longterm immobility or overseas travel.

During the massage, the therapist places pressure on the lymph vessels, located mostly under the skin, clearing the lymph from your tissue and then moving it toward the lymph nodes for reabsorption. These rhythmic, circular movements encourage the lymph system to function more efficiently and unclear any blockages in flow, giving your body a strong defense and improving long-term health.

Incentives Organic Salon & Spa, Babylon Village, (631) 893-3490, incentivespasalon.com

5 Wellness Tips from a Holistic Nurse Coach

Nicole Monteserrato, a registered nurse for 15 years, survived ovarian cancer five years ago and developed a desire to share the healthy lifestyle tips she adopted with others. Now a BoardCertified Holistic Nurse Coach, she advocates passionately for prioritizing self-care, using natural remedies, and incorporating other beneficial tools for healthful living. Here are her latest recommendations.

Pranamat*

A personal full-body massage at your convenience, the Pranamat alleviates muscle tension, enhances relaxation, and improves sleep. Just 20 minutes daily can significantly relieve back and neck pain, making it ideal post-workout or before bed. www.pranamat.com.

*This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease and should not replace medical advice. Always consult your doctor.

Essential Oil Diffuser**

I’m a big advocate of the diverse benefits of essential oils, however, be sure to always use a carrier oil to dilute when applying them to your skin. I recommend diffusing a mix of peppermint, eucalyptus, and lavender to combat seasonal allergies; for boosting immunity, try a blend of lemon, clove, and rosemary. At night, a calming diffusion of lavender, vetiver, and bergamot sets the mood for a restful sleep.

**Use essential oils with caution around pets and children under two years of age. Always know the safety facts for each oil you use.

Fire Cider†

This folk tonic combines organic raw apple cider vinegar with a spicy infusion of veggies and herbs for an immune boost like no other, fending off or shortening colds and improving overall health. It’s a staple for both prevention and quick response at the first signs of illness.

†These statements have not been approved by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease and should not replace medical advice.

Infrared Sauna‡

Relaxing in a sauna is a great self-care practice. A weekly 30-minute session is my secret to soothing sore muscles and improving heart health, especially during the chill of winter. The experience is not just about warmth but creating a personal oasis with spa music and gentle stretching to soothe the soul. Always stay well hydrated before, during, and after sauna use.

‡If you're unsure of whether a sauna is safe for you, consult a doctor first.

Water-filtration System

Water is a fundamental pillar of health, underscoring the importance of a clean water supply. Consider investing in a whole-house filtration system to eliminate contaminants like heavy metals and pesticides. If you’re not ready for such an investment, start with kitchen and shower filters to safeguard both your inner health and your skin, which is your largest organ and absorbs anything you put on it!

To learn more about Nicole Monteserrato bsn, rn, nc-bc and her holistic journey, follow her @holisticnursecoachli on Instagram or visit her website www.rejoiceinwellness.com.

The Dirty Dozen and Clean 15

Every year the Environmental Working Group (EWG) publishes two lists to help the public make informed decisions about which fruits and vegetables to buy organic and those that are safe to purchase as not organic. The Dirty Dozen list includes produce with the highest quantities of pesticide residue; it is best to buy these in organic form. The Clean 15 indicates fruits and vegetables with the lowest residue that are safe to buy nonorganic.

New to the Dirty Dozen this year are blueberries and green beans, with green beans showing residue of a toxic pesticide banned more than 10 years ago. Carrots are new to the Clean 15 list this year, taking the place of cantaloupe. Avocados and sweet corn were found to be the cleanest, with less than 2 percent having any detectable pesticide.

2023 Dirty Dozen

• Strawberries

• Spinach

• Kale, Collard, and Mustard Greens

• Peaches

• Pears

• Nectarines

• Apples

• Grapes

• Bell and Hot Peppers

• Cherries

• Blueberries

• Green Beans

2023 Clean 15

• Avocados

• Sweet corn

• Pineapple

• Onions

• Papaya

• Sweet peas (frozen)

• Asparagus

• Honeydew Melon

• Kiwi

• Cabbage

• Mushrooms

• Mangoes

• Sweet Potatoes

• Watermelon

• Carrots

The EWG researches and reports on harmful agricultural practices, spotlighting outdated legislation and loopholes that pose risks to human and environmental health. To learn more about what they do and sign up for their annual Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 lists, go to ewg.org.

A HEALTHY ALTERNATIVE TO THE DIRTY DOZEN Grow Your Own!

Consider planting fruits and vegetables from the Dirty Dozen List in your garden to avoid the pesticide residue found on store-bought produce. Companion planting with marigolds and herbs will form a natural deterrent for pests while creating a beautiful, chemicalfree growing environment. Good soil preparation is essential to success. Enrich it with compost to improve fertility and drainage. If you’re a beginner, start with tomatoes, strawberries, and green beans—all of which thrive in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil and will benefit from organic mulching. These practices will ensure a bountiful harvest of safe, nutritious fruits and vegetables.

Anthony Cerabino and all our Healthcare Wellness Center practitioners specialize in helping people by using a COMBINATION of healing modalities including: Anthony Cerabino Founder

 Acupuncture

 Medical Massage

 Herbal Medicine

 Nutritional Counseling

 Allergy Elimination (NAET)

Acupuncture Relieves Pain and Helps with the Rehabilitation of:

 Any Sport Injuries: Strains, Sprains, Muscle Aches, Tendonitis

 Neck, Back, Wrist and Knee Surgery

 Side effects of Radiation and Chemotherapy

 Post COVID “Long Hauler” Symptoms

Some Common Conditions Acupuncture Treats:

 Headaches and Migraines

 Allergies

 Weight Loss and Addictions

 Digestive: Constipation, Diarrhea

 Emotional Distress, Anxiety and Depression

 Insomnia

 Gynecological Issues

Benefits of all our services include:

 An Increase in Energy and Vitality

 A Decrease in Stress

 Strengthening of the Immune System against Chronic Diseases

 Learning to Live “A Healthier Life-Style”

 Having a Renewed Sense of Well-Being

B.M.. LMT, M.S., L.Ac

Licensed Acupuncturist and Massage Therapist WE

Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield Cigna United Healthcare Magnacare Aetna

The Empire Plan (NYSHIP) Oscar

All No-Fault (Accident) Carriers

Faith in Bloom

OUR COMMUNITIES HAVE LONG BEEN home to a rich diversity of places of worship, such as the Jewish Centre of Bay Shore and churches of various denominations, all encouraging selfexploration through faith. In this issue, we spread some local love for two historic churches dating back nearly two centuries that stand as pillars in our communities. We’re also highlighting an alternative church founded just four years ago in Babylon Village.

The annual Bay Shore–Brightwaters St. Patrick’s Day Parade marched proudly among crowds of revelers along Main Street last month, led by this year’s honorable Marshal Fr. Seán Gann, a devoted local leader and pastor at St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church in Bay Shore, which is celebrating an important milestone this year. It’s their 140th anniversary of the very first Mass, held in 1884, following the first official appointment of a pastor, Reverend James Bobier, to administer to our then developing island.

The generations that preceded us established many churches that endure in our landscape, with their tall steeples and reverberating bells. One of the oldest congregations, the United Methodist Church, in Bay Shore, dates to 1810 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2001. Though restoration of the church is currently in progress, its Romanesque-style vaulted wooden interior, with original stained glass windows overlooking the sanctuary, remains in disrepair. A community effort is underway to raise the funds needed to restore the dignity of this historic house of worship and once again make it a beautiful and inspiring place to celebrate the sacraments.

As the spiritual landscape evolves, it’s clear that one size does not fit all when it comes to faith. While traditional churches have long been the cornerstone of many communities, there’s a growing interest in more contemporary expressions of faith. Among these innovative spaces is Community Church of Babylon, founded in 2020 by Lou and Allie Pizzichillo. With its vibrant music, casual atmosphere, and free bagels and coffee, this church is reimagining what a faith community can look like. They offer practical applications to biblical teachings and make spirituality accessible to everyone. In our exclusive interview, Pastor Lou shares the journey and vision behind founding his church, and

how they’re bringing the teachings of Jesus to life in ways that speak to modern hearts and minds.

The LIST interviews Pastor Lou Pizzichillo, Community Church of Babylon

LIST: What inspired you to start a new church?

Pastor Lou: When I was growing up, simply the mention of God or church triggered feelings of guilt and inadequacy. The image that came to mind was an angry, powerhungry killjoy. We’ve found this view to be pretty common. At some point, I was introduced to the idea that God was for me— that he was in my corner—and that Jesus came to give life to the fullest. For me, this changed everything. And so, the question wasn’t, what would it take to start a church? The question was, what would it take to change the way people think about God?

The answer was to start a church that exists to change the way people think about God—a church for people who don’t go to church.

LIST: How does your church differ from the traditional church experience?

PL: The message we teach is the same message the church has been teaching for two-thousand years. What makes us different is our approach. Our programming is designed for people who don’t have a ton of experience or interest in church. We explain biblical concepts in everyday language. Our messages are designed to be practical and encouraging to both the churchgoer and the newcomer.

It also means that our environments are intentionally less traditional. We take what we do seriously, but we don’t take ourselves seriously.

We invest a lot of time and resources into our children’s programs. We work hard to make sure the kids are having a blast, not just for their enjoyment, but for their education. Kids learn when they’re having fun. Their experience isn’t an afterthought, it’s a priority. As a parent, I want my kids to grow up loving church.

LIST: What is your message?

PL: Come as you are. We’re big on being real. You can belong before you believe, and you’ve got permission to be in-progress. We bring our questions, hang-ups, doubts, and failures. We believe God meets us as we are, where we are—so we try to do the same.

To learn more about Community Church of Babylon, go to communitychurch.net.

To read a full biography of Reverend Seán Gann, pastor at St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church in Bay Shore and 2024 Marshal of the Bay Shore–Brightwaters St. Patrick’s Day Parade, go to bsbwstpatricksparade. com/fr-sean-gann-bio.

For more information on the United Methodist Church of Bay Shore or to donate to the Sanctuary Restoration Project, go to bayshoreumc.org/restoration.

The LIST Magazine respects all forms of faith, personal systems of belief, and religious traditions rooted in love. As a lifestyle magazine, our content is meant to be informative and inspirational.

The Netter Family’s 75-Year Legacy

Three Generations of Excellence

“I’m a real, real estate broker. I’m a dying breed. Family owned, family run,” says Jim Netter, of Netter Real Estate in West Islip.

His family’s origins in the Long Island real estate industry date back 75 years this year to his father. Joseph Xavier Netter Jr. entered the industry as the first salesperson hired by Bill Levitt, the developer and housing pioneer. “My Dad grew up in Brooklyn, and when he came back from WW2— he landed on the second day of the D-Day invasion in Normandy and also served in Tunisia and Sicily— he and my mother, Corinne Vera Schey, married and moved to Levittown.” JX, as everyone called him, established the first Netter agency there in 1949, selling Levitt homes to returning veterans. “It was my mother who instilled in me, at a very young age, the importance of family,” Jim says. Now it’s his wife, Kristina, who has guided the business for the past 33 years and continues the emphasis on family. Three of his children, Jennifer, Andrew, and his youngest son, Cory, who joined the business just a year ago, are all licensed with the firm. “It’s kind of like a family tradition. If you’re going to be working, eventually you’ll end up working in the real estate business, and that’s what happened to me,” he says.

But Jim's own journey into real estate, and to becoming one of the most respected brokers on Long Island, wasn’t always that straightforward. He earned his real estate broker’s license at age eighteen, as was expected of him, but at first, he really didn’t want to go into the family business. After graduating from West Islip High School in 1968, he passed up a swimming scholarship to Fort Schuyler Maritime College and took a job as a stockbroker trainee on Wall Street, getting up at the crack of dawn to catch “the Cannonball” locomotive to Manhattan every day. Though he saw a future in it, the demands of family life soon took over when he got married at nineteen and had his first child. At the time, he was commuting to the city and working parttime at his parents’ Babylon Village office. Reminiscing on those days, he says, “I think that work ethic carried through my life. I still get into the office at 7:30 in the morning.”

But Jim left the business again around 1973, when his father was retiring. “I wasn’t working directly with my father as much, and I became disenchanted. I went clamming on the Great South Bay instead,” he says. He bought a Volker clam boat and became a tonger. “I would walk along the edge of the clam boat, stick the tongs in the sand, and bring them together like scissors, picking up the

clams that way, then dropping them on the deck.” It was grueling work, especially in winter, gathering five hundred littlenecks per bushel. “I do remember, at the end of some of my better days, as I was becoming more proficient—stronger, better, harder working—I was able to get two bags a day, depending on the weather.” Sometimes, he recalls, “there were so many clams there would be clammers all over the place. You could walk from boat to boat. If you go to Glen’s Dinette in Babylon, they have pictures on the walls of people doing that. I was one of those guys!”

Eventually he realized there wasn’t enough money in clamming, and after going to work briefly for another agency, he developed a true appreciation for his father’s way of doing business. “He was a very ethical man, very honest, very straightforward, and in the beginning of the Long Island Board of Realtors, he was very involved in making sure everything was done correctly. He would say, ‘Jan,’—because my name is James Andrew Netter—‘there’s a right way to do the wrong thing, and there’s a wrong way to do the wrong thing. Why do you keep trying to do the wrong thing the wrong way?’ He was actually trying to teach me, there are rules and there are ways of doing things, and he wanted me to learn them. Because it can be easy in the real estate business to do things the wrong way if not properly guided.”

Bidding farewell to his clamming days, he established his own agency in 1975—purchasing the dilapidated gatehouse and blacksmith’s cottage dating to 1832, part of the old McCurdy Estate, and restoring it to its original state to house his office on Montauk Highway. He became actively involved in the governance of the Long Island Board of Realtors and the Multiple Listing Service, sitting on the Board of Directors, the Executive Board, and finally serving as president in 2003. “I’m pretty well-known for doing things the right way and making sure the people who do business with me also do the right thing. But it all started with Dad, telling me what I did wrong!”

Now presiding over his office as a trusted mentor to his salespeople, he never competes with his team, nor does he take any leads. Instead, he shares his

Netter Real Estate

404 Montauk Highway West Islip, NY 11795 631-661-5100

NetterRealEstate.com

Netter Beach Estates 310 Bay Walk Ocean Beach, NY 11770 631-583-6100

NetterBeachEstates.com

database, a rarity in the industry. Over the decades, the office has grown to more than eighty salespeople, traditionally serving Amityville to Sayville and north to Deer Park, though the internet has expanded their business island wide. They sell between 250 and 300 homes annually, ranging in price from $250,000 co-ops to multimillion dollar estates. Even though it’s centered around family, Netter Real Estate is run like a large corporation, making sure they’re responsible financially and ethically.

“Our clients are our first priority, then Netter Real Estate and its agents,” Jim says, and that approach, he claims, has helped them retain some of the most talented brokers on Long Island. “Many of our salespeople have been with us for 20 to 37 years. They’re part of the Netter

legacy, “he says. “They’ve been extremely loyal, and we’ve been blessed to be able to cultivate a thriving family environment.”

Now in his seventies but not slowing down, Jim has begun reflecting personally on how his family legacy will evolve in the future, as he seeks to attract the next generation of real estate brokers and teach them how to do things the right way. “I think young people could learn a great deal from our team here, and the comradery could help create a lifelong career. You can be successful and make money, with a team that has your back,” he says. Netter’s culture of fostering newbies and inviting them to become part of the family tradition, provides a solid foundation for their potential success. Due, at least in part, to their commitment to integrity, inherited from Jim's parents but sustained by him and Kristina over the years, the Netter family business has continued to expand. They opened Netter Beach Estates in Ocean Beach, Fire Island in 2018. “The tightknit community was standoffish at first,” Jim says. “They resisted our more

sophisticated ways of doing business,” but Netter’s time-proven methods and their membership in the exclusive Leading Real Estate Companies of the World organization, which allows them to work with buyers and sellers around the globe, soon attracted some of the barrier island’s most-trusted local agents, many of whom live there year-round and are deeply familiar with the market.

Jim was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from The Long Island Board of Realtors in 2022, but when asked what this recognition means for the future, he says, “Our mission remains the same: Helping people buy and sell real estate in the most professional manner possible to achieve their goals. We are committed to providing the highest quality experience. I may not know what the future holds, but rest assured, we will continue to provide the same superior service that Netter Real Estate has provided since 1949.”

Bee the Change!

Cultivating a Pollinator-Friendly Garden

By now, most of us are aware that pollinators—especially bees, which are essential to our ecosystem and food supply— are facing multiple threats, from habitat loss and increased use of toxic chemicals to parasites and climate change. They play a crucial role, helping plants produce seeds and fruits by transferring pollen from one flower to another. The good news is, there are things we can do in our vegetable and flower gardens to support our local pollinators. And it is critical that we do so!

This spring, we invite you to join us in creating a vibrant pollinator garden, a sanctuary for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects and animals that are vital to the health and vitality of our planet.

Embracing the Beauty and Bounty of Nature

Planting a garden with flowers selected specifically to attract pollinators not only benefits these essential creatures but rewards you, the gardener, with an ever-changing landscape of colors and forms. From the very first bloom of crocuses in early spring to the last aster in fall, your garden will be a dynamic showcase, with each flower taking its turn on nature’s stage. The continuous succession of blooms will support a diverse array of pollinators while offering a year-round spectacle of beauty, making your garden a place of both ecological significance and aesthetic delight!

Year-Round Blooms: Creating a Buffet for Pollinators

Planning for a diversity of blooming times ensures that your garden will offer a continuous feast throughout the seasons. Plant a mix of flowers that blossom in spring, summer, and fall. Even in the colder months, your garden can cater to the needs of pollinators, making your garden a year-round haven.

Elements for Success

Plant in Clusters: Grouping plants together not only creates visual impact but makes it easier for pollinators to forage efficiently. Select plants with differing heights and group them together in threes, so that they will touch when fully mature.

Water Features: A simple birdbath or shallow dish can quench the thirst of weary pollinators, offering them a place to drink, bathe, and rest. Prevent the water from becoming stagnant by placing a solar-powered water-resistant fountain in the water.

Native Plants: Select native species, which are plants that are already well-adapted to your local climate and soil and have evolved to thrive in your region. These plants often require less maintenance and are incredibly attractive to native pollinators.

Pest Control: The Natural Way

Embracing natural pest-control protects both your garden’s plants and pollinators. Integrated pest management (IPM) practices help maintain the balance without harming the very creatures we aim to support. IPM is a proven method for longterm prevention. Techniques include proper selection of pestfree plants and soil, planning for ideal harvest times, rotating crops, and habitat manipulation.

A Seasonal Guide to Planting

Early Spring: Kick off the season with crocuses and snowdrops, early bloomers that offer a critical food source when few other flowers are available. Plant these bulbs in early fall. Pansies are another lively option for early spring and a great source of nectar for those pollinators just emerging from winter’s hibernation.

Spring: As the weather warms, daffodils and tulips begin to flourish, bringing vibrant colors and attracting a variety of pollinators, such as bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies. Plant these bulbs in early-to-late fall.

Summer: This is when your garden hits its stride. Echinacea, lavender, and black-eyed Susans take center stage, creating a buzz of activity in your garden. Plant echinacea in spring or early summer when small plants are full of buds. Lavender should be planted in mid-to-late spring. Black-eyed Susans are best planted after the last winter frost or in the fall.

Fall: Keep the momentum going with late-season bloomers like asters, goldenrod, and sedum to ensure that pollinators are well-fed before winter. Birds, such as sparrows, like to feed off the seeds of asters. And sedum is an essential landing habitat for the migratory monarch butterfly, which was named an endangered species in 2021.

Beyond the Garden Bed

If you’re short on space or only have a small patio or balcony, container gardens filled with marigolds or petunias can be a valuable resource for pollinators. Herbs are a favorite for many species as are bright and colorful flowers like zinnias or lantana. Arrange plants in containers to create stunning visual displays that are perfect for photographs!

Local Nurseries: Your Resource

For the best selection and advice, visit your neighborhood nurseries. They can offer insights into native plants suitable for your area and provide tips for your specific garden conditions. Father Nature’s Garden Center in East Islip is a great resource. Don’t be afraid to ask questions of your local experts!

More Resources: Get Involved!

For gardening enthusiasts looking to deepen their knowledge and find additional local support, an abundance of resources and opportunities can be found at the Bay Shore Garden Club, which is celebrating its 95th anniversary this spring, as well as at the Bayard Cutting Arboretum in Great River.

APRIL 7–14

Long Island Restaurant Week Prix fixe: 2-course lunch $24 or 3-course dinner $29/$39/$46. For a list of participating restaurants: www.longislandrestaurantweek.com

SATURDAY, APRIL 20 | 8 PM

LI Comedy Festival presents Spring Fling. Argyle Theatre, 34 W. Main Street, Babylon. All new line-up of some of the most hilarious comedians working today. For information/tickets: argyletheatre.com.

MONDAY, APRIL 20

Earth Day 2024. A global event dedicated to safeguarding our Earth for future generations, discover ways to get involved at earthday.org.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 24 | 6–9 PM

Annual Raffle Basket Auction presented by the Babylon Village Chamber of Commerce. The Piermont, 494 Fire Island Ave., Babylon. $40 advance tickets only at eventbrite.com. Hundreds of baskets, food & drinks

SATURDAY, APRIL 27 | 11 AM-3 PM Bees, Trees, and Butterflies Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society. Celebrate Arbor Day in the Keeper’s Quarters and discover how our actions impact the butterflies and bees. Learn about milkweed, create a butterfly,

and get seeds to take home and plant. Call for reservations: 631.583.5901. More info at fireislandlighthouse.com.

MAY 16–19

13th Annual Montauk Music Festival. Four days of original musical performances from many genres, with free shows at 35 venues. For information: montaukmusicfestival.com.

SATURDAY & SUNDAY MAY 25–26 | 10 AM–3 PM

Bethpage Air Show at Jones Beach State Park. The U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels are back as the headliners, with many featured guests: The U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team, the U.S. Navy F-35C Tac Demonstration Team, and the 106th Rescue Wing NY Air National Guard HC–130/HH 60 Demonstration Team, with many more performers in the line-up. Don’t forget your earplugs!

MONDAY, MAY 27 | 10:30 AM

Bay Shore–Brightwaters Memorial Day Parade. Honoring our local servicemembers, the parade kicks off at Lanier Lane & Main St.

SATURDAY, JUNE 1 | 8:30 AM

Great South Bay YMCA 5K Run/ Walk in Memory of Judi. 200 W. Main St., Bay Shore. Proceeds from the race benefit local individuals impacted by breast cancer. To register: ymcali.org/5Kseries.

SUNDAY, JUNE 2 | 10:30AM & 1 PM

The Peony Path Tour at Sagtikos Manor. 677 W. Montauk Highway, Bay Shore. Enjoy a private tour of the manor’s walled garden while the peonies are in bloom. Reservations recommended, sagtikosmanor.org.

SUNDAY, JUNE 2 | 3 PM

4th Annual Babylon Village Pride Parade. Babylon Village celebrates LGBTQIA+ & Pride Month, kicking off at Main St. & Deer Park Ave.

SATURDAY, JUNE 8 | 11 AM–6 PM (RAIN DATE: JUNE 15)

Babylon Village Spring Fling Festival. Explore, dine, and shop in Babylon Village while enjoying live music, children’s activities, and games. Same-day registration for the sidewalk chalk drawing contest! Three age categories!

SUNDAY, JUNE 9 | 11 AM–6 PM 24th Annual Arts Festival by the Bay. Main St., Bay Shore. An arts extravaganza featuring live music and dance performances, artists, vendors, and plenty of entertainment for the kids, including pony rides and a petting zoo.

DA NOI ITALIAN RESTAURANT

301 Main Street, Islip

631-650-6468 • danoiislip.com

Charming, warm and intimate setting in the heart of Islip. They offer the finest Italian cuisine prepared by talented chefs. Extensive selection of pastas made on premises daily, grilled fresh fish, free range fowl & meats, salads and more.

DINNER • BAR • TAKE OUT

POST OFFICE CAFÉ

130 West Main Street, Babylon Village 631-669-9224 • postofficecafe.com

The Post Office Café has been a Long Island favorite for more than 40 years. Known for their juicy burgers, signature cocktails, and welcoming staff, the family-friendly Post Office Café is sure to deliver everytime.

LUNCH • DINNER • BRUNCH • BAR • HAPPY HOUR ENTERTAINMENT • TAKE OUT • CATERING • DELIVERY

ITA KITCHEN

Multiple Locations www.itakitchen.com

Innovative Italian-American cuisine featuring traditional classics and a modern take on some new favorites. Visit one of their many locations in Bay Shore, Garden City, East Moriches Waterfront, and Patchogue.

BAYBERRY

501 Main Street, Islip

631-210-0011 • bayberryislip.com

This American bistro pays homage to Islip’s maritime history with a menu focused on local catch and innovative creations. Don’t miss Bayberry’s popular weekend brunch, a local favorite. In addition, the venue boasts a private events space perfectly suited to accommodate gatherings of over 150 guests.

LUNCH • DINNER • BRUNCH • BAR • HAPPY HOUR OUTDOOR DINING • TAKE OUT • CATERING

ARGYLE GRILL & TAVERN

90 Deer Park Ave., Babylon Village 631-321-4900 • theargylegrill.com

Sophisticated yet casual atmosphere offering an extensive menu of amazing starters & salads, sandwiches & wraps, prime burgers, daily specials and more formal entrees. Sit at the long bar or enjoy delicious food and a premier selection of wines, spirits and craft beer in their dining room.

LUNCH • DINNER • BAR • HAPPY HOUR • TAKE OUT CATERING • WEEKLY SPECIALS

THE GREEK GARDEN

6 Grove Place, Babylon Village 631-422-4722

Babylon Village’s hidden gem…this family-owned restaurant has been serving authentic Greek food in Babylon Village for over 20 years. A friendly and casual atmosphere, you’ll find delicious versions of all your favorites from gyros, souvlakis and Greek salads to spinach pies and more.

LUNCH • DINNER • TAKE OUT • CATERING

MON-SAT: 10AM-9PM • CLOSED SUNDAYS

VIEW

3 Consuelo Place, Oakdale

631-589-2694 • viewoakdale.com

View offers dockside dining with breathtaking views of the Great South Bay, a menu boasting specialties from both land & sea and the best lobster rolls and rum punches on the island.

LUNCH • DINNER • BUFFET BRUNCH • BAR • HAPPY HOUR OUTDOOR DINING • WATERVIEW DINING • ENTERTAINMENT HEATERS • PATIO • TAKE OUT • CATERING • DELIVERY

BARRIQUE KITCHEN AND WINE BAR

69 Deer Park Ave., Babylon Village 631-321-1175 • barriquekitchenandwinebar.com

Enjoy small plates meant for sharing in charming brick-and-timber quarters. Rustic food, artisanal cheeses, cured meats, thin-crust pizzas, pan pressed sandwiches, mini-desserts, and a large selection of wines by the glass, full or half bottle, as well as craft cocktails & beer.

DINNER • BAR • HAPPY HOUR • WEEKLY SPECIALS OUTDOOR DINING • TAKEOUT

GOLDY’S GEMS

5 Third Avenue, Bay Shore

631-665-9596 • goldysgems.com

A timeless bar featuring cozy leather couches and a quality sound system, Goldy’s is a place to bring people together. Offering an extensive selection of local beers, killer house cocktails, and creative bar food, it’s the perfect spot for a mellow hang with friends, a late-night bite, hosting an intimate private party, or just letting go and dancing yourself clean.

DINNER • BRUNCH • BAR • HAPPY HOUR • ENTERTAINMENT TAKE OUT • CATERING

AMERICAN

SEAFOOD

SMALL PLATES

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Berry-Jam Fried Chicken on Cornmeal Scallion Waffles

Spice up Mother’s Day with this Delightful Soul Food Brunch Dish, Perfect for Indulging with Family and Friends this Spring.

Berry-Jam Fried Chicken

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 large egg

• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar

• 1/3 cup strawberry jam (or your choice of fruit jam)

• 2 lb. chicken breast cutlets (approx. 6 pieces)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

PREPARATION:

1. Marinate: Whisk egg, vinegar, and jam. Add chicken, ensuring each piece is coated. Chill for 30 minutes or overnight.

2. Dredge: Combine flour, cornstarch, spices, and seasonings.

• ½ cup cornstarch

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt (plus extra for serving)

• 1 teaspoon each of ground ginger, dried thyme, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper

• Peanut oil for frying

3. Fry: Heat oil to 300°F. Coat chicken in the dredge, shaking off excess. Fry until golden, turning as needed (approx. 8 minutes).

Spicy Scallion Cornmeal Waffles

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup fine white cornmeal

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt

PREPARATION:

1. Mix dry ingredients: Cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, red pepper flakes, and salt.

2. Combine wet ingredients: Beat eggs, then mix in buttermilk, scallions, and olive oil.

• 2 large eggs

• 11/3 cups full-fat buttermilk

• 4 scallions, cut into ¾-inch pieces

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

• Nonstick cooking spray

3. Make waffles: Combine wet and dry ingredients. Cook in a preheated waffle iron until golden.

While warm, top each waffle with a piece of fried chicken, pour on the maple syrup, and add a little jam butter for the ultimate soul food experience. This recipe was adapted from an article from NYT Cooking, by Nicole Taylor.

It’s just not brunch without coffee! Plus, it’s super easy to make.

INGREDIENTS:

• 6 oz. finely ground espresso beans

• 4 cups cool water

• Milk, for serving

DIRECTIONS:

1. Stir ground coffee and water together in a pitcher. Cover and let sit overnight at room temperature.

2. Strain through a fine sieve lined with a coffee filter, letting it drip into another container. If the cold brew concentrate is too strong, dilute it with additional water. Refrigerate up to 3 days.

3. To serve, fill tall glasses with ice. Add 1/3 cup cold coffee and top with milk or sugar to taste. Enjoy.

Distinguish Your Home with a Black Front Door

Painting your front door is a straightforward and cost-effective way to create lasting impact at your home’s entrance. While there are many vibrant hues to choose from, black is a sophisticated choice, especially for those considering selling their homes. Market research suggests that homes featuring black front doors benefit from higher sale prices, demonstrating how a small change to your home’s exterior can dramatically affect its market value. Regardless, we find black front doors to be distinctive and timeless. We’ve curated a list of the top black paint options:

• Sherwin-Williams Tricorn Black SW 6258. A true black with a minimal undertone, making it a safe and predictable choice.

• Sherwin-Williams Iron Ore SW 7069. A softer, charcoal-like black.

• Farrow & Ball Off-Black No.57. A soft black and well-loved classic.

• Sherwin-Williams Black Magic SW 6991. A sophisticated dark black with a warm brown undertone.